The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Department of Health (DOH) in collaboration with the Medicines Transparency Alliance (MeTA) have conferred the award for "Good Governance in Medicine" (GMM) to the Capiz provincial government last Jan. 26 in Manila.

The awards aim to institutionalize the concept of good governance and transparency in the registration, selection, procurement, use and management of medicines.

The entries were evaluated through their conformity with WHO and national standards in the management and access of medicines.

"Capiz was chosen because of its proper structures and systems in medicine selection, procurement, management, financing, rational use and access," said a Capiz Provincial Press Bureau (CPPB) news release.

The article added that the recognition affirms that the province is right on track towards achieving its health development agenda for the CapiceÃ±os under the administration of Capiz Gov. Victor A. Tanco.

"My development agenda always focus on the welfare of the people," the news quoted Tanco.

The plaque of recognition and the cash prize worth P 150,000.00 was received by Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Jarvis Punzalan during the awarding rites.

GGM is being implemented in 26 countries by the WHO and it is the first time since 2004 when the program started, that an award was given to recognize good practices in both the private and public sector on good governance and transparency in medicine. (PIA/A.Lumaque)